July 25, 2012
Following an uproar from the music teachers and parents, letters to MPs, Facebook outrage and a number of petitions, the State Government looks set to back down on its decision to scrap the popular school instrumental music competition Fanfare.
Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said today Fanfare may continue but only with the backing of private enterprise.
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington said everyone had been working hard to achieve this outcome.
“If we can get the festival sponsored, and already some possible backers have come forward, it will be back stronger than ever in two years’ time,” Mr Langbroek said.
“This is an excellent case for a public, private partnership, where the Department can provide the co-ordination and private enterprise the necessary funding.
“After overwhelming support from the wider community, we’re going to work hard to do what we can to bring back Fanfare.”
Jazz great James Morrison said he had met many talented musicians in Queensland’s schools.
“It’s important we nurture our students’ love of music and confidence to perform and that is why I’m calling on private enterprise backing to help bring back Fanfare,” he said.
Interested sponsors have been invited to contact the Department on (07) 3237-1364.
Music insiders have tipped that an announcement about a new sponsor could be made as early as next week at the Fanfare Grand Final.
- Related article: Decision To Axe Fanfare Stuns Parents
